Injection molding and incorporate molding techniques have been around for decades, but the process has recently gained in popularity due to the advent of computer-controlled machining processes. Overmolding and injection molding often get mistaken for each other. Naturally, because both processes are forms of injection molding that are used to make identical structural parts. However, if you dig deeper, you will discover that over mold and injection molding are actually very different, and each provides unique benefits. From injection molded electronics to creating everyday tools cleaner, overmold, and injection molding provides a lot of advantages, but only if you understand precisely what makes them unique.
Injection molding begins with an initial injection of the raw material, followed by the production of the material via pressurized air. The injection process is usually done via a small gun-like device called a conversion kit. An injection molding technician is then sent into the mold cavity to begin the conversion process. The conversion kit includes all the necessary components such as the pressure tank, the conversion chamber, and the air compressor.
The conversion process produces three parts: the raw material, the compression mold material, and the final product or the end product itself. Once these three parts are produced, they are typically sent back to the injection molding shop. There, the conversion technician would use the appropriate tools to fully transform the raw material into the final product. In most cases, this process is completed manually, although automated systems are also available to automate the process.
Robotic technology can automate the entire injection molding process, from start to finish. Robotic arms perform the majority of the work, starting with the unloading of the mold cavity and then continuing through the transformation of the mold into its final form RIM Molding. One type of robotic manufacturing system popular in the injection molding industry is the touchless or autopilot machine. This type of system uses touch sensors or “laser” technology to feed the material into the molds. Touchless machines are commonly used with plastics since it does not require manual intervention and is also considered safer than other types of automatic systems.
Plastic mold tooling services may be completed manually or via automation. Automated systems can speed up the process considerably, especially if there are a lot of pieces to be made. However, some companies prefer to design and manufacture all their molds in-house, to improve control, quality, productivity, efficiency, reliability, and overall production standards. In fact, most plastic mold tooling services have a staff of skilled engineers and technicians who perform all the manual work.
With the advent of home depots, manufacturers are now able to expand their business even further. This means that more product varieties can be offered to consumers at drastically reduced costs. In fact, some companies offer plastic manufacturing at home or at their own factories and packaging plants. Companies are able to reduce overhead costs as well, which results in higher profits for the company. So if you’re planning to start your own manufacturing company, look no further than injection molding.